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27th Governor of Queensland Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM

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Christmas Reception in support of Health Workers

Minister for Health, the Honourable Yvette D’ath; distinguished members of the healthcare profession; ladies and gentlemen.

I acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera peoples, and extend respectful greetings to Elders, past, present and emerging.

It is an enormous pleasure for Graeme and me to welcome you all to Fernberg for this evening’s reception to recognise and thank the individuals and organisations in the Queensland’s health sector.

You have made a truly exceptional contribution to our State since our first reported case of COVID-19, almost two years ago.

Queensland’s vast area makes it challenging to provide equitable health services to every Queenslander in the best of times.

When natural disasters and a global pandemic are added to the mix, it takes not only efficient planning and military precision in service delivery, but flexible, creative problem-solving at all levels of the system.

I was enormously proud, as Queensland’s Chief Health Officer, to see those qualities present “in spades”, as the sector responded to the pandemic and, on behalf of all Queenslanders, I thank you for the hard work and expertise that was contributed so generously.

It was your dedication, care and compassion that kept Queenslanders safe and helped ensure their access to appropriate health services, wherever they lived.

When I was sworn in as Queensland’s 27th Governor, six very busy weeks ago, I declared the priorities that will be my focus for the next five years.

Key among them is to encourage a healthy and active Queensland.

Those who know how important this was to me Chief Health Officer will not be at all surprised that this passion has continued into my role as Governor and that I take every opportunity to spread that message.

It is wonderful to have the opportunity, in this vice-regal role, to continue to be an advocate for the exceptional work that you all do.

I hope you are all able to have a richly deserved rest over the Christmas season and a happy and relaxing time with your loved ones.

Thank you again, for all that you do. Merry Christmas, and I hope you enjoy the wonderful Christmas Lights display.